Take a left off Randolph Street, past the old brick warehouses now housing boutiques, and you’ll find yourself in Thomasville’s culinary heart. Once known for furniture, this town now serves up one delicious discovery after another. Every day, locals and visitors alike queue for everything from smoky barbecue to delicate pastries. Someone, somewhere, is definitely not turning in their grave.
Granny’s Donuts
$ | (336) 476-9595 | WEBSITE
This Thomasville donut shop serves apple-stuffed bear claws, butterfly-shaped treats, and an intriguing bacon donut that have a light, crunchy texture we’d happily wake up for. A single peach fritter is enough to satisfy any sweet tooth, but the dough is so fresh and pillowy, with a generous filling and a perfect glaze on top, that we’re willing to bet you’ll want a whole dozen.
Come here for a foolproof morning stop, get a fritter or two while grabbing one of their coffee drinks, and feel smug that you’ve secured some of the best donuts in North Carolina. If you’re looking for more of a sit-down experience, head to their spacious High Point location.
Capri’s Pizzeria & Family Restaurant
$ | (336) 472-1425 | WEBSITE
There are multiple reasons why we quickly fell in love with Capri’s Pizzeria & Family Restaurant. The first is the name which speaks to us both personally and profoundly. The second, third, fourth, and all the rest were food-related. The signature Capri’s special pizza is unlike any pizza we’ve had in Thomasville. Full of flavor, it arrives with a perfectly crisp crust topped with generous layers of pepperoni, sausage, and vegetables.
The other dish that occupies valuable real estate in our brain is the chicken parm—tender breaded chicken smothered in rich marinara and melted mozzarella. It is some of the best Italian comfort food in all of North Carolina.
China Wok
$ | (336) 472-0175 | WEBSITE
At China Wok, families with kids in tow line up for takeout orders at 6pm on a Friday, and regulars, drawn to the Thomasville spot by its generous sesame chicken, attempt chopstick maneuvers with overflowing lo mein. If we were writing this local Chinese joint’s school report, the word ‘reliable’ would come up. So would the phrase ‘just wants to feed you well’.
The food is mostly excellent, with the same warm, accommodating spirit as the restaurant: classic Szechuan chicken with just the right kick, tasty egg rolls and crab rangoons, and yes, the odd complimentary substitution when drinks run out.
Terry House Barbecue
$ | (336) 475-1628 | WEBSITE
Terry House Barbecue is all about romanticising your home cooking experience: the worn wooden tables feel authentically lived-in in a cozy-not-cluttered way, the checkered vinyl tablecloths look classic in a nostalgic-not-dated fashion, and the steaming pots of fresh-brewed tea will become your most-cherished comfort drink.
We’ve tried their Thursday fried chicken livers, Sunday fried chicken, and homemade old-fashioned burgers, and whether you’re sampling one of those or one of their generous-portioned classics—like the outstanding country fried steak—these are some of the heartiest, most satisfying meals in Thomasville.
With attentive service keeping glasses full and reasonable prices making every visit feel like a steal, this local gem serves up delicious down-home cooking in a welcoming atmosphere where everyone can find something they like.
The Blend
$ | (336) 300-1573 | WEBSITE
For the more passionately caffeinated, there’s The Blend, the OG of the all-powerful coffee chain. The atmosphere inside is an ideal pre- or post-work relaxing spot. Throughout, the coffee is reliably tasty, as are the donuts. Also, don’t miss out on a full-fat chai if you want a truly decadent experience.
Dairi-O of Thomasville
$ | (336) 530-8129 | WEBSITE
Once you’ve settled into a booth at Dairi-O of Thomasville, unwrapped their perfectly toasted beef hot dog, and happily taken that first satisfying bite, then you’ll understand why this place draws customers from all over Thomasville. The spot just off the main road is a specialist in classic American comfort food—the kind of fresh, hot meals that work for lunch, dinner, and everything in between.
We usually go for the burgers or hot dogs, and both the cheese fries and sweet potato fries with cinnamon sugar for that sweet-and-savory comfort everyone craves.
The Mill: Coffee & Community
$ | (336) 474-1262 | WEBSITE
Few things are better than needing a quiet spot to work or relax, feeling that sudden craving for something warm and comforting, and finding yourself in a coffee shop that also offers some pretty good food. The Mill: Coffee & Community is just that. This welcoming spot has a very satisfying menu, from fresh desserts to paninis that come highly recommended. And the variety of drinks ranges from hot cider to lattes to lemonade, all at reasonable prices that feel fair for the quality.
It’s an easy choice for an unplanned break.
Tortilleria El Tio
$ | (336) 481-9268 | WEBSITE
This authentic Mexican spot in Thomasville can be a welcome break from some of the chain restaurants dotting the area. This is a casual, friendly, freshly-made tortillas kind of place. The barbacoa tray is excellent and generously portioned, and those house-made tortillas are some of the tastiest (and most affordable) things you can get for under fifteen dollars in North Carolina. This is a great spot for a quick lunch, a family dinner, or anything really.
Taco Lopez
$ | (336) 472-1566 | WEBSITE
Taco Lopez feels like stumbling upon a vibrant family kitchen tucked away in a quiet corner of Thomasville. This Salvadoran-Mexican spot is all about handmade tortillas, and the flavors are on the authentic side, letting the fresh, in-house ingredients do all the talking. The menu’s packed with heavy hitters, like warm, handmade tortillas, generous burritos, and standout asada quesadillas.
Bring your appetite, savor everything with the friendly owner’s patient guidance, then top it off with the popular tacos de alambre and authentic pupusas.
Henriquez Pizza
$ | (336) 762-0045 | WEBSITE
Great pizza is something we’re always on the look-out for, and Henriquez Pizza is one of Thomasville’s better options, and a very good choice when you’re looking for a no-nonsense pizza spot in North Carolina. Come for a quick and affordable lunch: make sure to order the pepperoni and pineapple pizza, garlic knots, and homemade ranch dressing, and be pleasantly surprised by the bill.
S & S Grill
$ | (336) 475-3417 | WEBSITE
A bit more nostalgic than your typical modern diner, the menu at S & S Grill leans classic comfort. Think hamburger steak plate with melted American cheese and sautéed onions, or simple salad with that homemade ranch dressing. Come with friends, for a casual meal, or, if you’re passing through town, use any excuse to pull off the road and have a solid lunch. Specifically the hamburger steak.
Tres Amigos Mexican Restaurant
$ | (336) 475-0325 | WEBSITE
Whether you’re a spice lover, bargain hunter, or comfort food fanatic, you should be dining at Tres Amigos Mexican Restaurant in Thomasville. Everything on the Mexican menu at this relaxed spot is delicious, from the crazy good quesa barria and Pollo Hawaiiano, to the best-ever enchiladas and Tillapia street tacos. It’s good-value too: you can have an excellent lunch for under $15, or get the full experience with Columbian Arroz Con Pollo and fried plantains for around $25 for a satisfying meal.
